Bhatkhande State Cultural University (BSCU) in Lucknow is planning the launch of three new departments to broaden the scope of courses in performing arts, language and cultural studies, theology and more.

Dedicated to the study of visual arts, Indian history and culture, and Buddha and Jain studies, the new educational wings are expected to start this session. Additionally, the University will introduce 87 courses from the academic session 2022-23 in July for students who pursue a nonconventional degree, diploma or certificate.

One of the more revered cultural varsities in all of Uttar Pradesh, Bathkande has only recently- in January 2022, been awarded with the status of a full-fledged state university. With the new status, the BSCU has planned to diversify and elaborate their curriculum.

The University has planned to launch 5-year long courses under its ambit, which will reportedly run in association with autonomous cultural institutes. These include Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi, Bhartendu Natya Akademi, State Lalit Kala Akademi, Jain Research Institute, Buddha Research Institute, Rashtriya Kathak Sansthan, Sant Kabir Academy and Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan.

Registrar Tuhin Srivastava, said, till now aspirants for several undergraduate and postgraduate courses like Pali, Prakrit, manuscriptology and paleography, museology, philosophy and religion had to go to centers in Varanasi, Gaya and Delhi. Students can now pursue these courses and more, now in Lucknow.

"The final decision about these programmes will be taken in the academic council meeting on Monday. The courses will help the students learn the culture and heritage of our country in a better way. The admission process will begin in the first week of July," he added.